Walking for change: a personal journey of advocacy and solidarity with refugees

* Trigger warning: sexual assault and discrimination 

My name is Joel Mordi, and I’m a student at the University of York studying Global Development (Politics and International Relations). I’m a human rights activist and humanitarian, and my fundraiser is deeply personal—rooted in both my lived experiences and my passion for making a difference, especially for minoritised communities. 

© Joel Mordi

My journey to the UK 

In 2015, I founded the Mordi Ibe Foundation, which was dedicated to bridging educational inequality, particularly for LGBTQ+ people. And in 2019, I organised Nigeria’s first-ever month-long Pride protest, a historic event that came with significant risks. Advocating for equality in Nigeria came at a cost. After fleeing Nigeria for my safety, I arrived in the UK on November 4, 2019, leaving everything I once knew behind. 

Upon arriving in the UK, I faced unexpected challenges, including being placed in a detention center where I experienced verbal and sexual assault. The initial experience was deeply traumatic, but I was determined to carve out a new life in a country I admired. My passion for advocacy led me to co-find the Minority Inclusion Foundation in the UK, an organisation dedicated to ensuring fair inclusion for minoritised groups. 

© Joel Mordi

Life in the UK: The highs and lows 

Living in the UK has been bittersweet. While I have found opportunities for education and activism, I have also faced systemic barriers. One defining moment was when I was denied admission into a Russell Group university despite meeting all the criteria. This was a wake-up call, highlighting the challenges faced by racial and social minorities. 

Despite the struggles, I have found joy in community, music, and storytelling. I am a huge fan of musical theatre, ABBA, and badminton. I have also created over 365 daily vlogs discussing social, political, and environmental issues under the SDG framework. Now, I am channelling that same dedication into my fundraiser, Two Refugees Walking Across London. 

© Joel Mordi

Why I walk for refugees 

My relationship with displaced people started long before I became a refugee myself. Nine years ago, my charity supported displaced flood victims in the Delta State, Nigeria. Now, in 2025, I find myself walking in the footsteps of those I once advocated for. Refugees undertake treacherous, life-threatening journeys in search of safety. If they can endure 2,500 miles of uncertainty, I can walk across London to raise awareness and funds in solidarity. 

UK for UNHCR plays a crucial role in supporting displaced individuals, offering protection, resources, and advocacy. Es Devlin’s Congregation introduced me to their work, and I knew I had to get involved. Fundraising isn’t just about collecting donations, it’s about creating a movement of solidarity and action. 

How you can help 

You don’t have to be a refugee to stand with refugees.  

Support can come in many forms; walking with us, sharing our story, donating, or simply listening. Every step we take is a step towards change, and every contribution—big or small—makes an impact. 

To support our fundraiser, please donate at: https://givestar.io/gs/backward-is-my-reality and follow our journey on social media: @tworefugeeswalking @mif_UK_ @Mordiofficial. 

Let’s walk together, let’s raise awareness, and let’s stand with refugees. 

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To read more inspiring supporter and refugee stories, please click here.  

To find out more about how you can fundraise for refugees visit our community fundraising portal.